Did 2020 leave you feeling tired? Studies have shown that 40% of Australians are getting too little sleep - so if the answer was yes, you're not alone. New Years resolutions are notoriously hard to stick to, and can leave you with the post January blues when the month ends and you're already off track. Our brains use sleep to recharge and sort through our experiences - it's kind of an important part of being human! So, making one of your resolutions to get better sleep is a sure fire way to improve your well being and health, and when implemented properly, is an easy one to stick to. Here's a few reasons why getting a good night's rest is essential to succeeding in that "New Year, New You" feeling - and how it may even tick off a few others on your Resolution list.
1. You'll Accomplish More At Work
Being awake for more than 17 hours impairs your ability to think clearly as much as having a blood alcohol concentration above 0.05 (without all the pleasantries of a few glasses of wine). After 24 hours awake, your ability to perform cognitive tasks is as poor as if you had a blood alcohol concentration of 0.10. It makes sense that the more sleep you have, the better "you" you'll be at work. Get an appropriate amount of rest and watch as your focus begins to shift to what's on your desk rather than day dreaming of your pillow. Australian's who don't get enough sleep are also more likely to take a sick day than those who do - so save your leave for when you need it!
2. It Will Improve Your Diet
Have you ever noticed your sweet tooth is a little more prominent the sleepier you are? That's because the more sleep deprived we are, the more likely we are to reach for snack foods - particularly the sweet stuff. Making healthy sleep hygiene a part of your life will leave you feeling good in the inside, and help you manage what you want to eat.
3. It Will Make You More Creative
Scientists and artists alike have suggested that getting enough sleep spurs on creativity - and this has been proven with studies. What's on your list of resolutions? Learn to paint? Take up pottery? Or maybe even just to start a journal? Whatever it is, getting a good amount of rest each night will ensure your brain is at it's brightest for whatever you want to imagine.
While this all sounds wonderful, you may be wondering how you can put into practice - you can find more sleep tips here - or, if you're lucky enough to be enjoying the Australian summer, find out how you can perfect your summer sleep routine!
